Keep up with the happenings at the Muhlenberg Job Corps with the center's December 2014 newsletter

Keep up with news from the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps with the December 2014 newsletter

Check at the latest news from Charleston Job Corps!

Teaching computer skills, one generation to the other

Basic computer skills are key components of the education that students at the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Office Administration program receive. So it was only fitting that these students, along with their instructor, Melissa Hicks, decided to share their computer knowledge with residents at the Riverview Nursing Home. Office Administration students visited the facility Oct. 23 to teach residents basic computer and cell phone skills. The students taught residents how to save and download photos from smart phones, log into the Internet, create a Facebook page, set up an email account and play games. These basics, which many of us take for granted, can open up a whole new world for senior citizens and help them stay connected with their family and friends.

While the residents got to learn new technology skills and enjoy the companionship of some young people that many residents already consider their adopted grandchildren, the students also gained much from the experience. Perkins students got to practice the computer skills they learned in class, help others, use their teaching and communication skills, and learn some great life lessons by listening to the stories shared by residents.

The day was such a success that it is now a weekly activity for Carl D. Perkins Job Corps and the Riverview Nursing Home.

Muhlenberg Job Corps hosts Senior Citizens Prom

The Muhlenberg Job Corps Center Recreation Department, with the assistance of the health careers students and the Military Club, hosted the 2014 Senior Citizens Prom Oct. 23 at the center. The annual event had outgrown its facility, and Muhlenberg Job Corps was more than happy to host the event. Proceeds from ticket sales for the prom benefited the Pennyrile Allied Community Services (PACS) Hot Delivered Meal program at the Senior Citizens Center. Approximately 115 senior citizens attended the event, which included a catered meal by the Snack Shack, and music was provided by the Benny Pryor Band. Students supported the event by directing traffic and assisting with parking, escorting seniors to their tables, serving the meal. Students also joined in the fun as they line danced with seniors until the end of the night, and asked each senior to dance.

Up in smoke!

Students at the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center got some valuable fire safety training Oct. 16. That’s when CJ Childers of Pike County Emergency Management brought a million-dollar mobile fire trailer to the center for fire safety presentations for students and staff. Students got to go into the unit in groups of eight to see simulations of grease fires, oven fires, and trash can fires in the kitchen and to learn how to use a fire extinguisher and how to react to each of these types of fires. Students also went into a mock bedroom and learned how to best react to a house fire. They experienced first hand smoke coming under the door, the sensation of not being able to see, and feeling the door for heat, and learned that it’s crucial NOT to open the door if it feels hot.

At Perkins Job Corps, safety is the top priority, and training exercises such as this are part of the center’s ongoing focus on safety. Thanks to the Pike County Emergency Management and the Prestonsburg Fire Department for assisting with the presentations.

Early Detection, Education and Intervention are important keys to fighting breast cancer

That was the message that students and staff at the Charleston Job Corps Center heard at its 4th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Event Oct. 22. The event was held in honor of October Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Female staff and students listened to a presentation by Alyshia Harris, a registered nurse at Thomas Memorial Hospital and breast cancer survivor. “This disease does not discriminate. It does not care about your race, age or gender,” she said. She also stressed the importance of doing self-exams, mammograms and early detection.  Harris, who credits her family and friends for their support and encouragement, noted that attitude is crucial in fighting the disease. “I was determined to beat cancer. I have so much to live for.”

Tia Welch, business community liaison at Charleston Job Corps, said Charleston Job Corps has hosts this event each year “because we want our students and staff to be informed about the disease, and the importance of self-exams and making healthy lifestyle choices.”  Wellness Manager Sherri Holstein reminded students and staff that “early detection, education and intervention of breast cancer save lives.”  Center Director Willie Brown said, “Breast cancer is a very devastating disease, but it can be overcome.  As a center we want to support our breast cancer survivors as best we can.”

On behalf of the Charleston Job Corps Center, Welch and students from the Ladies of Excellence group presented a check to Alyshia Harris for the Thomas Memorial Hospital Foundation Pink Ribbon Fund.  Following the presentation 100 students and staff walked the track and released pink and white balloons recognizing those who have succumbed to the disease.

A special thanks to guest speaker Alyshia Harris; Sandy Young, RN, Thomas Memorial Hospital; and Hometown Sportswear for the customized t-shirts.

Pictured left to right, Bryanna Watson, Tia Welch, Alyshia Harris and Jaquai Felton.

Muhlenberg Job Corps recognizes Employee of the Month

Congratulations to Debbie Devine, finance specialist – the Muhlenberg Job Corps Employee of the Month for September. Thanks to her hard work, Muhlenberg was able to end the contract year with “No Unbilled Purchase Order Receipts,” which means that all invoices were entered by the deadline. She entered over 430 invoices to meet a year-end deadline while doing all her other financial duties. Talk about multi-tasking! Devine’s efforts have contributed to the fact that Accounts Payable has scored 100% on all quarterly corporate trip report audits this year. She also identified a vendor error that resulted in a significant credit to the center for services not rendered.  For all these reasons and more, Debbie Devine is Muhlenberg’s “Employee of the Month.”

Pictured left to Ashley Knight, HR manager; Debbie Devine; and Center Director Eric Jones.

Perkins SGA meets with Sen. McConnell

The Carl D Perkins Job Corps SGA members and Business Community Liaison Jimmie Slone recently met with Senator Mitch McConnell at a community event at Brandise Industries at Stanville, KY. Sen. McConnell talked with the students and said he was glad to see them again. McConnell had visited the Perkins Job Corps during its National Job Corps Commencement Day activities Aug. 22. He also told SGA member Devonte Lewis he thought he was a faculty member because he looked so professional. And, no meeting is complete without a selfie – which is exactly what SGA member Josiah McIntoch took with the senator!

Thanks Senator McConnell for your continuing support of the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center.

Pictured left to right are BCL Jimmie Slone; Devontae Lewis; Sen. McConnell; Josh Kisiel;
and Josiah McIntosh.

Muhlenberg launches new Career PROS Team program

The Muhlenberg Job Corps Center has launched a new mentoring program designed to give each student the personal attention and guidance her or she needs to succeed in his or her academic and career training at the center, and ultimately, succeed in advanced training programs, college and/or careers. The Career PROS Team (CPT) Program uses a team approach to providing training and servicing student needs. The CPT team is involved in students’ progress throughout the program in all major educational and social development areas. 

Students are assigned teams, according to the career technical training program in which they are enrolled. These teams remain consistent throughout the student’s enrollment, and include the manager, counselor, academic instructor, CTT instructor, administrative support, security staff, residential advisors and/or recreation staff.

Through the CPT program, students learn and enhance social and employability skills through classes facilitated by staff and students on the team. The team keeps its staff and students informed of all center activities and student opportunities at bi-weekly meetings. These meetings also act as a forum in which teams can recognize and encourage student achievement, and students can present needs or concerns that develop throughout the month.

In addition, the CPT program serves the following functions:

• Assists students in identifying and removing obstacles to achievement of set goals;
• Assists students in adapting to center life throughout the CDSS process;
• Assist students in enhancing social and employability skills that will lead to success in the workplace and throughout their personal lives;
• Monitor and address student attendance and accountability issues;
•  Monitor student progress in education and training throughout the career development period;
• Assist in the development and implementation of applied academic curricula and instructional; techniques adapted to the individual learning styles of the students;
• Recognize student progress and achievement through positive reinforcement and incentives, and;
• Prepare and project students for the final phase of the program and the world of work.

Muhlenberg Job Corps celebrates 50 years of Job Corps success!

The Muhlenberg Job Corps staff and students came together Aug. 18-22 for a full week of celebration in honor of Job Corps’ 50th anniversary.

Balloon release is a festival way to honor Job Corps.

Events included a 50th anniversary balloon release; time capsule burial, proclamation reception (proclamations for Job Corps 50 Week were received from Governor Steve Beshear and Greenville Mayor Ed DeArmond; MCDC 50 shape aerial  photo; and ending the week with graduation ceremonies, with 26 students graduating. Muhlenberg Job Corps was honored to have Colmon Elridge, executive assistant and senior advisor to Kentucky’s 61st Gov. Steve Beshear, as guest speaker.  Elridge told graduates, “It is left up to you to have the dignity to move forward in your life, the dignity to make a difference. You’re worth the dignity you’ve earned.  Please remember that you are the faces of hope and opportunity.  We are blessed as a commonwealth and nation for your journey.” 

Job Corps was initiated as a central program of the Lyndon B. Johnson Administration's War on Poverty. Since its inception in 1964 under the Economic Opportunity Act, Job Corps has served more than 2 million young people.  Job Corps serves approximately 60,000 youths annually at Job Corps centers throughout the country.

Ground broke for the Muhlenberg Job Corps Center in 1973, and the center began accepting students in 1974.  At that time three buildings were built for less than $ .5 million.  The center started as an all-male center; females were accepted in 1979.  Muhlenberg offered only heavy equipment operator career training for many years. In 1974, the center educated 82 students and employed 14 staff.  Now, 41 years later, the center houses 343 students, and employs 140 staff.   The center has served more than 16,000 students since 1973, and currently contributes approximately $6 million back to the local economy.

Over the years, the center has offered career technical training programs in the following areas:  heavy equipment operating; brick masonry; painting; plumbing; security officer; culinary arts; facility maintenance; auto repair; business technologies; construction equipment mechanics; welding; CDL license; clinical medical assistant; certified nursing assistant; pharmacy technology; and insurance billing & coding.

Job Corps continues to work by providing disadvantaged youth with the social, academic and vocational training they need to be successful in their chosen career.  For the past 50 years, Job Corps has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for more than 2.7 million young people.

Pictured at right are Center Director Eric Jones, BCL Karen Robinson and Jason Hasert, field representative for Sen. Rand Paul.

Recognition for a job well done!

The Pikeville City Commission recently recognized and thanked the Security & Protective Services class from the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center for the long hours SPS students put in during the Hillbilly Days to provide security for the parking garage and at stations throughout town.

The Commission also approved a partnership earlier this year that allows the Perkins students to provide security for events downtown throughout this summer. This new partnership gives students valuable on-the-job training and provides Pikeville with valuable security services for its summer season events. Job Corps works – for students and for communities!

Six graduate from Muhlenberg Job Corps HSD Program

The Muhlenberg Job Corps Center is proud to announce the most recent graduates of the Muhlenberg Career High School Diploma program. Gradates celebrating their achievement are Hezekiah Potts (Virginia) who completed Welding; Desiree Atkins (Tennessee) who completed Medical Office Support and Insurance/Billing & Coding; Kaila Murphy (Florida) who completed Certified Nursing Assistant; Chris Hoffman (Florida) who completed Construction Equipment Mechanics and Class B CDL; Kendrick Bell (Mississippi) who completed Pharmacy Tech; and Jarrod Shelton (Kentucky) who completed Construction Equipment Mechanics. 

Congratulations on a job well done!

Charleston Job Corps student participate in disaster preparedness drill

When it comes to disaster preparedness, practice makes a huge difference.

And students from the Charleston Job Corps Center played a big part in the success of a recent Disaster Preparedness Drill at Harris Riverfront Park in Huntington, WV. Thirteen students from the center joined others to act as disaster victims with various injuries from lacerations to broken limbs. The drill involved a riverboat accident with mass casualties.

The drill, held June 23, is being led by the Cabell-Wayne Local Emergency Planning Committee.  Emergency responders utilize this training to examine and evaluate emergency planning procedures, as well as coordination among first responders and community partners.  Several groups participated in the drill, including the Huntington Fire Department, U.S. Coast Guard, Cabell County E.M.S., Cabell County 911, Huntington Police Department, St. Mary's Medical Center, Cabell Huntington Hospital, the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Spring Valley and River Park Hospital.

CJCC is grateful for the opportunity to participate in this drill as part of the center’s activities for Universal Safety Month.  Student participants included Brittany Yeager, Lizabell Gonzalez, Tamara Evans, Cierra Smith, Angelique Jackson-Hazelwod, Ben Binda, Taylor Wallace, Ronald McPhaul, Samantha Jakoby, Jahnay Brice, Michaela Sims, Cameron Blankenship and Paris Jamison accompanied by Gary Evans, safety officer; Jeffrey Burdette, security manager; and Tia Welch, business community liaison.

Pictured, first row, are Brittany Yeager, Lizabell Gonzalez, Tamara Evans, Cierra Smith, Angelique Jackson-Hazelwod and Ben Binda; second row:  Taylor Wallace, Ronald McPhaul, Samantha Jakoby, Jahnay Brice, Michaela Sims, Cameron Blankenship and Paris Jamison.

Charleston Job Corps student on the road to becoming an RN

Daviya Doyle-Tull, a 25-year-old student at Charleston Job Corps, is well on her way to achieving her goal of becoming a registered nurse. She has received her High School Equivalency from Penn Foster and completed the Certified Nursing Assistant (C.N.A) Program at Charleston Job Corps. Additionally, she completed a work-based learning internship at Hubbard Hospice House, located just across from the center. Now she's preparing to enroll in the Registered Nursing program at the Charleston (WV) ARea Medical Center to pursue her goal of becoming an RN.

Her words of wisdom to current and future Job Corps students mirror her own determination: “Strive for success and never give up.”

Daviya is just one more example of how Job Corps works to change lives and build bright futures.

Welcome Eric Jones, new center director at Muhlenberg Job Corps

Eric Jones is the new center director at Muhlenberg Job Corps. Jones, whose first day at the center was June 16th, came to Muhlenberg from Bamberg Job Corps Center in South Carolina, where he was center director four years. Jones, who has more than 13 years of Job Corps experience, also served as career development service director at Miami Job Corps; career development/transition program manager at Flint/Genesee Job Corps; independent living manager at the Earle C. Clements; and career counselor and leadership coordinator at Excelsior Springs.

Welcome to Muhlenberg!

Charleston Job Corps BCL Tia Welch honored by Rotary Club

Congratulations to Tia Welch, business community liaison for the Charleston, WV Job Corps Center. Tia was named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Charleston Rotary Club in recognition of her efforts to further understanding and friendly relations among peoples of the world. Tia, who served as president of the Charleston Rotary Club for 2013-14, was the first African-American president of the Charleston club. Tia noted that her election to that post "speaks volumes to the spirit of inclusion and diversity our club has to making the world a better place for ALL."

Muhlenberg Job Corps recognizes Brooks as April Employee of the Month

Commercial Driver’s License Instructor Scottie Brooks has been named April Employee of the Month at Muhlenberg Job Corps Center. Brooks, who was hired as the CDL instructor in April 2006, has been repeatedly recognized for not only his contributions to the success of his students to also to the success of the center and of local citizens.

The CDL career technical training program has consistently obtained high overall scores, which directly affect the overall center performance. During April alone, the CDL trade contributed 146.70% to the Center’s overall score within the Outcome Measurement System. In April, the CDL trade had four student completers, one student direct job placement, two Job Training Matches

(JTM’s) with wage upgrades, and a 12-month positive survey with an average earnings of $1100, which played a key role in propelling the rating for that category.  Brooks continues to put in numerous hours more than his regular schedule, working diligently to get his class of 11 students completed in a timely fashion. Congratulations on a job well done!

Pictured are Scottie Brooks, CDL Instructor, and Ashley Knight, HR manager at Muhlenberg Job Corps Center.

Muhlenberg Job Corps female student soars in non-traditional trade!

Hats off to Muhlenberg Job Corps student Anne Marie Scheer, who not only is training in a non-traditional trade for women, but who is excelling in that trade! Scheer, 25, non-residential student, drives 106 miles round trip daily from her home in Webster County to attend Muhlenberg AND juggles her training with the demands of motherhood! Talk about a busy woman!

She enrolled in Job Corps with her high school diploma and has successfully completed the Heavy Equipment Operators course, which has landed her certifications in OSHA, flagger and fork lift operations.  Her goal is to continue her education in other training areas such as construction equipment mechanics and the truck driving course (CDL) before transferring to advanced mechanics training.

John Austin, Heavy Equipment Operator instructor, states “Anne is one of the hardest, most dedicated students I have ever had in class.  She can operate any piece of equipment, takes all safety precautions, and has never had a safety incident during her training.”
  
The Muhlenberg Job Corps offers four non-traditional trade opportunities to promote females in the workforce:  Heavy Equipment Operator, Construction Equipment Mechanics, Heavy Truck Driving, and Welding.  Job Corps program provides training and resources, at no cost to those who qualify, in support of recruitment, retention, and workforce readiness.
   
If you would like to know more about the Muhlenberg Job Corps program, please contact Karen Robinson, business community liaison at (270) 377-3269.

Charleston Job Corps students attend Yes You Can Conference

Forty students from the Charleston Job Corps Center got a healthy dose of positive thinking during the recent day-long Yes You Can Conference April 23. The event, coordinated by Lisa Lewis, student personnel officer at CJCC to support student retention, was held at the John XXIII Pastoral Center in Charleston.

Center Director Willie Brown opened the conference by encouraging students to make the most of the day’s events and “have an open mind.”

Guest speakers included Dr. R. Jenee Walker of the Charleston Area Medical Center, who spoke about “Overcoming Barriers to Success;” and Carl Lee, director of community outreach for the City of South Charleston and former NFL Pro-Bowler, who presented “Responsibility and Leadership.”

The conference included break-out sessions for male and female students that focused on “What are employers looking for?” The session for males was facilitated by Frances Brooks, CEO of BrooAlexa Construction of Charleston, and the session for females was facilitated by Starlena Moore, RN, a former Job Corps graduate. BB &T conducted a group session, facilitated by T. Craig Pettry and Missy Ferguson, on banking and establishing credit. Job Corps staff held numerous workshops addressing transition services, advanced training opportunities, and safety.

Pictured, above, left to right, are Kwame Levi and Carl Lee, community outreach director, City of South Charleston.

Charleston Job Corps honors student moms

The Charleston Job Corps Center honored its students who are also mothers during its second annual Mother’s Day Celebration May 9.

Six student mothers were recognized during a reception -- Meskerem Gemtesa, Darlene Flores, Ally Haines, Bridget Hartz, Ashley Weedon and Marie Wells. Guest speaker was Carolyn Wesley of the East End Family Resource Center and a member of the center’s Community Relations Council.

Business Community Liaison Tia Welch, who hosted the event, told the young mothers:  “I want you to know that staff care, and we encourage you to complete your goals so you can be good mothers to your children.” Center Director Willie Brown encouraged the students with personal experiences and recognized their achievements. Wesley urged the students to set short- and long-term goals. She said, “Be mindful of your circle of influence and know your resources. Whatever is toxic or not working, you have to let it go.”

 Staff encouraged the students to stay committed to the program and achieve their academic and career technical training goals to ensure a better life for their families.

Pictured, left to right, are Darlene Flores, Bridget Hartz, Carolyn Wesley, Marie Wells, Meskerem Gemtesa, and Ashley Weedon.

Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center receives Floyd County Chamber 'Partner in Education Award'

The Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center has honored May 2 by the Floyd County Chamber of Commerce when it received the chamber’s Partner in Education Award. Center Director Thomas Rainey accepted the award from David Tackett of Citizens National Bank in Prestonsburg at the chamber’s Awards Banquet at Jenny Wiley State Park.

The center was honored for its ongoing support of education. Since its beginning in 1981, the Perkins center has enhanced the job training of its students by spending countless hours volunteering throughout the community.

During this past year, Perkins has partnered with the Floyd County Head Start program to assist with multi-cultural awareness, math and science activities for area youth. Additionally, the center’s security training program conducted a bike safety training program for all Floyd County students in grades K through third to educate them about the importance of bicycle safety. Through initiatives such as these, the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center continues to assist the educational process for area students in Floyd County.

Pictured at right, Center Director Thomas Rainey receives the Partners In Education Award from David Tackett.

Cleveland Job Corps students use green thumbs for greener neighborhood

Student Ambassadors from Cleveland Job Corps Center put their green thumbs to use May 3 at the Green It Up tree-planting event in the Central neighborhood of Cleveland.  The event was organized by the Western Reserve Land Conservancy and Burten, Bell, Carr Development as a pilot project, and funded by a grant awarded to Keep Ohio Beautiful.

A number of community organizations and businesses also supported the effort.  The trees were obtained from Davey Tree Resource Group, mulch and topsoil were donated by Kurtz Bros. Inc., and the Holden Arboretum educated volunteers about the different types of trees planted.

Cleveland Job Corps Student Ambassadors who volunteered for this project were Tommie Jamie, Jasmine Lathan, Tierra Lucas, Robert Ballentine, Fashyon Carter, Robyn Townsend, Tashara Watley and Erica Gary, accompanied by Business Community Liaison Michael E. Taylor.

Retired Senior Volunteers help Muhlenberg Job Corps students with taxes

The Retired Senior Volunteers of Muhlenberg County made tax time a bit easier for a number of students at the Muhlenberg Job Corps Center.  RSVP volunteers have been helping students file tax returns, free of charge, for the past eight years, and have been offering these services to others in Muhlenberg County for the past 19 years.

The volunteers helped more than 20 students file their returns and get a much appreciated tax refund.

Muhlenberg Job Corps student Braxter Hicks with RSVP volunteer Margaret Clark.

Perkins Job Corps students spend their Saturday to help rescued animals

Students from the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center headed out at 6 a.m. May 3 to assist the East KY Racers with their Ultimate 5K run in Prestonsburg, Ky. The proceeds of the race went to the Floyd County Animal Shelter, which is currently in need of major repairs and expansion due to the overwhelming number of animals in need of shelter.

Perkins students Marshall Watts, Jacob Taylor, Mark Hiester and Travis Digregorio added a humorous touch to the event by dressing up as zombies, and throwing mud and colored powder at the racers as they passed by. The students also handed out doughnuts during the food challenge along the course. The students all agreed that it was worth giving their time to ensure all the animals continue to receive the services that the shelter provides.

 


Pictured at the finish line are Perkins students Marshall Watts, Jacob Taylor, Travis Digregorio and Mark Hiester with East KY Racers Founder Brent Graden, center.

Charleston Job Corps students help with kids' health event

Students from the Charleston Job Corps Center volunteered for the 21st Annual Kidoodle Kids’ Day on May 3 at the South Charleston Community Center. This free event for area children and their families, included services such as free dental, hearing and vision screenings, glucose and speech screenings, car seat safety checks, Jupiter Jump, a DJ, clown, and much more.  Thomas Memorial Hospital staff  were on hand to answer questions, provide education materials to families, and help give away 500 bicycle helmets to the children.

The Charleston Job Corps students assisted with screenings by signing up families and helping them with paperwork. CJCC volunteers included Francesca Wickline, Sara McDuffie, Tiffany Robinson, Nadirrah Wright and Stephanie Brown accompanied by Tia Welch, business community liaison.
  
This annual event is sponsored by The Foundation for the Thomas Memorial and Saint Francis Hospitals.

Pictured left to right are Francesca Wickline; Sara McDuffie; Tiffany Robinson; Sandy Young, RN; Nadirrah Wright; and Stephanie Brown.

Perkins students join in anniversary celebration of LBJ visit

Angaleena Presley with Perkins Culinary Arts students.

April 24 marked 50 years since U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson visited Inez, KY in 1964 and promised to end poverty in America.  On April 25, students at the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center celebrated that important anniversary of the start on LBJ’s War on Poverty as they showcased their skills during the “Dream! Martin County” event.  The celebration featured former presidential candidate and Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee as keynote speaker, and included members of the Inez community, the Kentucky Congressional delegation, state and local elected officials and business leaders.

Martin County native and country star Angaleena Presley told the Perkins students that her parents met at Job Corps and that she still has letters they wrote to each other while enrolled there.

To help with the anniversary event, Perkins culinary arts students prepared the meal for the VIP room, while Security & Protective Service students provided traffic, parking and crowd control.

Job Corps, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, is an important component of LBJ’s War on Poverty. As one of the longest-running programs for disadvantaged youth in America, Job Corps offers students the education, job training and hands-on experience they need to succeed in today’s competitive market place, continue their education and strengthen their communities.

Job Corps student receives Outstanding Multicultural Award

Muhlenberg Job Corps student Kitumaini Nturubika received the Outstanding Multicultural Award from Madisonville Community College Multicultural Student Association on April 24.

Kitumaini currently is one of seven Muhlenberg JCC students enrolled at Madisonville Community College. He is studying to become an Occupational Therapist and holds a 3.0 GPA.

In addition to his recognition by the college’s Multicultural Association, Kitumaini also works as a math and French tutor at the college’s Central City campus.

Kitumaini, who was born in The Congo and later became a resident of Orlando, Fla., successfully completed the Medical Office Support and Pharmacy Technology career technical training programs at Muhlenberg JCC before enrolling at Madisonville.

Kitumaini Nturubika continues to be a positive role model to the students of the Muhlenberg Job Corps and Madisonville College. He is proof that Job Corps works!

 

Pictured, left to right, are Dr. Jay Parren, chief student affairs officer at Madisonville Community College; Kitumaini Nturubika; and James Bowles, director of cultural diversity.

The Cleveland Job Corps is continuing its climb to excellence.

The center is now ranked 65th in the nation out of 125 Job Corps centers, with an overall rating of 102.4% of goal, according to the Outcome Measurement System. The OMS is Job Corps’ comprehensive performance management system to assess program effectiveness of the services and programs offered to Job Corps students. The OMS is an important measure of worth to taxpayers, Congress, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, to the students we serve. Way to go Cleveland!

Charleston Job Corps celebrates Global Youth Services Day

On April 11, Charleston Job Corps Center joined an estimated 2 million young people participating in Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) activities nationwide. This year, students and staff focused on fire prevention.

Students Sharis Purnell, Arielle Davenport, Donneica Johnson, Adam Lee, Audrey Liggins IV, Jaleel Shabazz, William Waters-Shorter, and Abia White, along with Business Community Liaison Tia Welch, partnered with Heather Foster, Regional Volunteer Service Director for American Red Cross –WV Region. The students canvassed neighborhoods in Dunbar, W.Va., to distribute fire prevention information to residents.

"GYSD is an important day for students at the Charleston Job Corps Center to join youth across the country to give back to the local community," said Welch.

The American Red Cross-Regional CEO Erica Mani, shared tips on fire prevention. "The most effective way to protect yourself and your home from fire is to identify and remove fire hazards. Sixty-five percent of home fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. During a home fire, working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives."

Pictured, left to right are, first row: Abia White, Ms. Heather Foster, Sharis Purnell; Second Row: Donneice Johnson, Audrey Liggins, Adam Lee, William Waters-Shorter, Jaleel Shabazz, and Arielle Davenport.

Carl D. Perkins students use Leisure Time Employment to gain experience, save money

Talk about a win-win situations! Two students at Carl D. Perkins Job Corps recently were hired by Arby’s restaurant for Leisure Time Employment and are using that employment to save money for their future. The two are electrical student Chris Allen and Carpentry student Martez Mackey.

Those two young men impressed Tyler White, the manager of Arby’s, with their outstanding work ethic and the fact that both had received OSHA training. Martez obtained his high school diploma, completed carpentry and currently is enrolled in the Industrial Technology Program at Big Sandy. Chris completed carpentry and is pursuing a second career technical training program in electrical at Perkins. He also serves as secretary of the Student Government Association.

As part of LTE requirements, students must save 80 percent of their earnings to help them once they graduate. So, their real-world job experience is bringing them benefits now … and in the future.

Chris Allen and Martez Mackey complete new hire paperwork with Arby's Manager Tyler White.

Muhlenberg Job Corps recognizes John Austin for going above and beyond

The Muhlenberg Job Corps Center recently recognized John Austin as the quarterly Above and Beyond Outstanding Employee. Austin was chosen for his commitment to ensuring that nine students succeeded in an accelerated Heavy Equipment Operators course. Through Austin’s leadership, this team of nine students quickly became a fine-tuned unit of skilled, well-trained operators. Four the students will transfer to Advanced Training programs and three will leave the center with jobs in their fields.

Austin’s commitment to excellence played a key role in these students’ success. He provided one-on-one instruction to students outside normal training hours to ensure that all met and surpassed the established course standards. He also provided on-the-job training by enlisting his team of students to clear the center’s roadways, parking lots and sidewalks of snow and ice this winter. Muhlenberg Job Corps staff noted these students’ professionalism and positive behavior as they tackled this important assignment and ensured the safety of all Muhlenberg’s students and staff.

Congratulations John Austin for going above and beyond!

Pictured above, HR Manager Ashley Knight presents John Austin with a certificate of appreciation for his outstanding work with Heavy Equipment Operator students.

Charleston Job Corps grad heads to TCU Advanced Training

Mercedes Dominique is well on her way to pursuing a career as a train conductor. A graduate of Charleston Job Corps, Mercedes is now headed to the Transportation Communications Union Advanced Training program at Potomac Job Corps Center to get the additional training she needs to advance in her chosen career.

While at Charleston Job Corps, Mercedes completed the Certified Nursing Assistant program, finishing with the highest class grade point average for that program. She also was a member of Ladies with a Vision, a female student organization at Charleston that promotes activities on center, and served on the dorm leadership for Parks Dorm.

Looking back at her enrollment at Charleston Job Corps, Mercedes credits her counselor Gerald Bush and his continuous support and motivation for helping her complete the program. Her advice to other Job Corps students is: “Focus on the outcome of what your hard work will produce instead of the temporary obstacles you may face on the road to success.”

Keep up with the news from Carl D. Perkins Job Corps

Enjoy the March 2014 edition of The Cougar Courier, the quarterly newsletter of the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center.

Keep up with the latest news from Muhlenberg Job Corps

Enjoy the March 2014 edition of News & Views, the quarterly newsletter of Muhlenberg Job Corps.

Keep up with the news from Charleston Job Corps

Enjoy the March 2014 edition of The Panther Press, the quarterly newsletter of the Charleston Job Corps Center.

Carl D. Perkins students attend unveiling of “Appalachia Proud” branding

On Feb. 17, Carl D. Perkins Office Administration student Dimitri Bien-Aime and Culinary Arts student Jazzmine Mathis traveled to Hindman, Ky., with Perkins Business Community Liaison Jimmie Slone to attend the unveiling of the state’s “Appalachia Proud” brand to boost agriculture in Eastern Kentucky.

The students heard from Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner James Comer, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and U.S. Sen. Rand Paul, who discussed the revitalization of Eastern Kentucky’s economy through agriculture and getting young people involved by working with community colleges, high schools and activating Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapters in every school district in the region.  Students also got to visit Kentucky vendors from 37 different counties. The vendors offered products made in their county; the products included but were not limited to honey, jams, candy, locally grown produce and crafts.

Students Bien-Aime and Mathis both stated that they had a “better understanding of Kentucky’s culture by attending this event.”

The students also had an opportunity to talk with McConnell and Paul about their accomplishments while attending the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center and their future plans once completing the program.

Carl D. Perkins BCL Jimmie Slone and students Jazzmine Mathis and Dimitri Bien-Aime meet with Sen. Rand Paul, left, and Sen. Mitch McConnell during the unveiling of the "Appalachia Proud" branding.

Charleston Job Corps grad now working for AMTRAX

Charleston Job Corps graduate Champagne Hill is now employed by AMTRAX, Mass Transit, in Queens, N.Y., making $16.49 an hour as a coach cleaner. Following her six-month trial period, Hill hopes to advance in the company to attending customers on the train. Her current duties include cleaning trains and diner cars, and making sure the train is presentable for customers.

Hill arrived at the Charleston Job Corps Center in June 2011 with her High School Diploma, and completed the Office Administration career technical training program.  From Charleston, Hill transferred in April 2013 to the Transportation Communications Union advanced training program for AMTRAX Mass Transit and Railroad Freight Clerk at the Shriver Job Corps Center in Devens, Mass.

Hill currently is living in the Bronx, N.Y. with her grandmother.

Congratulations Champagne!

County EMS visits Muhlenberg Job Corps

On Jan. 29, Johnny Hocker of the Muhlenberg County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), visited the Muhlenberg Job Corps Center health career students to discuss the role of EMS is responding to medical emergencies. Hocker explained to the students that EMS is an emergency medical care service to maintain and enhance the local community’s health and safety. Though, EMS is most easily recognized when emergency vehicles or helicopters are seen responding to an emergency incident, the local EMS is always ready to respond to every kind of emergency. The students were able to go through the ambulance, and they asked many questions about the medical equipment.

The Muhlenberg Job Corps works closely with local emergency responders for special informational sessions such as this and participation in the center's annual Safety & Health Fair.

Muhlenberg Job Corps Students learn about Hospice program

Don Duncan of the Muhlenberg County Hospice organization spoke with students enrolled in the health careers career technical training programs at Muhlenberg Job Corps on Jan. 28. Hospice provides support and care for those who are in the final phase of a life-limiting illness so they can live as fully and comfortably as possible.  Hospice also supports families of dying patients through the grieving process.

Don Duncan of Hospice with CNA students.

  
Duncan covered the following topics with the group:  admission criteria; levels of care; a dying person’s bill of rights; home care and nursing home care; different stages of death and dying; grief education; and bereavement support.  Duncan also shared information about a camp that Hospice sponsors every year for adults and children who have lost family members.

He also discussed employment opportunities and qualifications needed for individuals interested in working in Hospice care -- a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate with long-term or acute health care experience. 

Muhlenberg Job Corps wins big at HYS Leadership Meeting

Muhlenberg Job Corps Center took three first place awards at the Horizons Youth Services Leadership Meeting, Jan. 20-24 in Glassboro, N.J. Each year HYS presents a number of annual awards to the highest ranking centers it operates or serves as a sub-contractor for.

Muhlenberg Job Corps employees celebrate seven new awards.

The Muhlenberg Job Corps Center received first place in Safety & Environmental Health for having the highest Student Satisfaction Survey scores, Occupational Safety & Health scores and overall assessment ratings. Muhlenberg’s Finance & Administration department won first place for timeliness, accuracy and fiscal integrity of all financial operations.  Muhlenberg also won first place in Energy Conservation for having the largest reduction in water, gas and electric consumption of all centers operated by HYS.

HYS currently operates Muhlenberg, the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center in Prestonsburg, Ky., the Charleston (W.Va.) Job Corps Center, and the Sacramento (Calif.) Job Corps Center. Additionally, HYS serves as a sub-contractor for the Cleveland (Ohio) Job Corps Center and the Turner Job Corps Center in Albany, Ga.

In addition to its three first-place awards, Muhlenberg came in third place for being a High Performance Center in the Outcome Measurement System rankings which compare all 126 Job Corps centers in the nation. Muhlenberg’s welding and clinical medical assistant career technical training programs received the “Top 10 Best Career Technical Training” award and its Heavy Truck Driving program placed third in the “Highest Performance CTT10” category.

The Muhlenberg Job Corps Center currently ranks 62nd in the nation out of 126 Job Corps centers in OMS rankings.

Muhlenberg Job Corps honors CNA students with Pinning Ceremony

Muhlenberg Job Corps Center held a rite of passage for 13 Certified Nursing Assistant students with a pinning ceremony Jan. 27. The pinning ceremony recognized students’ completion of the CNA program as a stepping stone to a higher degree in nursing.

Awarding nursing students with a pin dates back to 1855 when Queen Victoria presented Florence Nightingale with a specially made broach to commend her for her work in the Crimean War. During the ceremony, students lit candles to signify the only light Nightingale had as she made the rounds tending wounded soldiers. Students also recited the Florence Nightingale Pledge.

All 13 CNA students who were part of the pinning ceremony completed 16 clinical hours at the Maple Manor Nursing Home, currently operated by Kindred Health Care.

Perkins student named to Student Congress to partner with Forward in the Fifth organization

Carl D. Perkins Job Corps & Big Sandy Community & Technical College (BSCTC) student Dimitri Bien-Aime’ has been selected to represent BSCTC and Forward in the Fifth as a member of the inaugural Student Congress. Dimitri is one of 21 college students who will be partnering with “Forward in the Fifth” to help improve education for himself, fellow students and future students.

“Forward in the Fifth” is a non-profit organization created in 1986 by U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY, 5th District). The organization works with businesses, schools and community leaders to improve education levels in Southern and Eastern Kentucky. Forward in the Fifth unites people and communities to create positive change.
Forward in the Fifth’s mission centers around three key actions -- Engage, Advocate, Support --  engage students, families, educators and the community to advance the value of education; advocate for improved quality of life based on higher educational attainment by promoting lifelong learning and providing a voice in support of the educational progress; and support efforts of schools and communities to advance educational progress through quality programs such as teacher training, student mentoring, leadership events and local action groups.
Dimitri has completed the Office Administration career technical training program at Carl D. Perkins and will have his double associate’s in art and science degree from BSCTS in May. He plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in chemistry.

Muhlenberg Job Corps recognizes employee's cost-savings efforts

Dwight Payton, property specialist at Muhlenberg Job Corps, was recently named Employee of the Month in recognition of his efforts to obtain needed cardio equipment for the Recreation Department at little cost to the center.

Payton, who has worked at the center since 1991, searched the government’s excess property website for the needed equipment, and was able to obtain more than $42,000 worth of equipment, including treadmills, stair steppers, elliptical machines, stationary bikes and weight benches, at no cost to the center except for transportation to the center.

During December 2013, Dwight was also instrumental in the collection of over 7,000 pounds of recyclable materials on center. He contacted local vendors for the proper removal of larger containers and ensured funds from the materials were added to the Student Government Association Green Fund for future green projects on center.

HR Manager Ashley Knight presents the Employee of the Month Award to Dwight Payton, property specialist.